Amnesty International has unveiled its new entity, Amnesty International Hong Kong Overseas (AIHKO), following the closure of its Hong Kong office in 2021 due to a human rights crackdown. This overseas section will be helmed by Hong Kong diaspora activists based in international centres like Australia, Canada, Taiwan, the UK, and the USA.
Chi-man Luk, the Executive Director of AIHKO, remarked on this milestone, stating, “The opening of Amnesty International Hong Kong Overseas marks a new chapter in the organization’s strengthened commitment to human rights in Hong Kong and its support for the Hong Kong diaspora around the world.” He acknowledged the tragic impact of civil society’s decline in Hong Kong, with over 100 organisations having to shutter or flee, and declared their renewed determination to support these communities globally.
Since the 2019 pro-democracy protests, Hong Kong has seen more than 10,000 arrests related to dissent, with activists facing severe consequences. Prominent figures like Chow Hang-tung and Jimmy Lai are identified as “prisoners of conscience,” highlighting the repressive environment created by the authorities. These new restrictions include the misuse of colonial-era sedition laws against dissenters, including those overseas.
Joey Siu, an AIHKO board member under police bounty, expressed resolve amidst oppression, stating, “The threats have only made us stronger… To truly be free from repression, we must continue to fight for human rights beyond our borders.” AIHKO aims to persist in advocating for human rights, not just for those on the island but also for the diaspora worldwide.
AIHKO marks a historic moment as Amnesty International’s first-ever section fully operating in exile amid the exodus of Hongkongers seeking safety. Board member Fernando Cheung shared insight into the benefits of operating from abroad, granting advocacy a safer space to flourish while also pledging support for ongoing efforts in Hong Kong.
This new office is joining a wave of civil society organisations arising outside Hong Kong due to the constricted landscape for free expression. AIHKO, registered in Switzerland, focuses on empowering the voices of Hongkongers globally while establishing a strong diaspora community.
Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, declared that this new venture embodies their resilience against authoritarianism, emphasising the importance of AIHKO in their ongoing struggle both in Hong Kong and worldwide.
In the backdrop, Amnesty International’s former local section ceased operations on 31 October 2021, redirecting regional support to various international sites in response to the mounting repression in Hong Kong. The concept of “prisoners of conscience” recognises individuals jailed for their beliefs or identity without resorting to violence in defence of their principles.
Amnesty International has launched Amnesty International Hong Kong Overseas (AIHKO) following the closure of its Hong Kong office amid government crackdowns. Led by Hong Kong diaspora activists across key global cities, AIHKO aims to advocate for human rights and amplify the voices of Hongkongers while supporting civil society efforts. This marks a significant step in the ongoing struggle against authoritarian repression.
The establishment of Amnesty International Hong Kong Overseas signifies a new chapter in the fight for human rights amid an oppressive regime. As an organisation led by Hong Kong diaspora activists, AIHKO aims to amplify the voices of those silenced, offering robust support to their community. With a commitment to advocacy from a safer base, AIHKO is poised to continue the struggle for both local and international human rights, revitalising hope amid adversity.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
